Together, the group has formed the Open Automotive Alliance (OAA), and given the alliance wants to see widespread Android devices in cars by the end of this year, other carmakers are expected to join sooner rather than later.

The recruitment drive will no doubt be helped by Google’s announcement of an open invitation to all other carmakers.

The OAA will jointly develop a common platform for the new system, aimed at “driving innovation and making technology safer and more intuitive for everyone”.

Department heads from all of the parties involved commented on the positive nature of the alliance, summarised by Audi’s Head of Electronics and Electronic Development, Ricky Hudi.

“The worlds of consumer and automotive technologies have never been more closely aligned, and this alliance will only pave the way for faster innovation,” Mr Hudi said.

“Working toward a common ecosystem benefits driver safety above all.”

The OAA may have just fired the first shot in an ongoing battle against Apple with its iOS In The Car and Siri Eyes Free systems. GM, for example, is now in a partnership with both of the technology giants.